Automated teller machine, software and distribution method

ABSTRACT

An automated teller machine ( 12 ) includes at least one processor ( 36 ) which operates to cause transaction function devices ( 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 ) to operate to carry out banking transactions for users of the machine. A software environment ( 54 ) operates in the processor and includes a hardware independent software application ( 60 ) which application may be operated successfully in a plurality of brands of automated teller machine hardware. The automated teller machine verifies that the software application has been authorized by an appropriate authorizing entity before the application is enabled to cause operation of transaction function devices. In some distribution methods the software application is provided in source code form at generally no charge to ATM owners and software developers, who are required to contribute modifications to the entity offering the software, which modifications are further made available to facilitate the development and use of platform independent software applications in automated teller machines.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This Application claims benefit pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) ofProvisional Application Ser. No. 60/351,257 filed Jan. 22, 2002.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to automated teller machines. Specifically thisinvention relates to devices and software used in the operation ofautomated teller machines and a method for operation and distributionthereof.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated teller machines (ATMs) are known in the prior art. Automatedteller machines may be used by consumers to carry out banking and otherfunctions. Such functions may include for example receiving cash, makingdeposits, checking account balances, cashing checks, printing checks,printing statements, printing money orders and other functions. Forpurposes of this disclosure an automated teller machine will beconsidered to include any device operative to carry out one or moretypes of financial transactions for users of the machine.

Automated teller machines usually include one or more internalprocessors which carry out software instructions and enable operation ofthe machine. Presently most automated teller machine software isproprietary to the particular machine manufacturer. As a result thesoftware which causes one manufacturer's automated teller machine tooperate will not operate another manufacturer's automated tellermachine.

Recently organizations have begun to develop standards related todevices commonly found in automated teller machines. These standardsprovide a generally uniform set of instructions for operating eachparticular type of device which is likely to be found in an automatedteller machine. For example these standards may provide a generallyuniform set of instructions for operating a cash dispenser to dispense abill. As a result an entity wishing to write software to operate anautomated teller machine may theoretically write a suitable softwareapplication for controlling the devices in the machine by writing thesoftware application in accordance with the standard. In additionsoftware written in accordance with the standard should be able tooperate in automated teller machines made by different manufacturers. Anexample of such a standard is known as the WOSA-XFS or XFS standardwhich has been developed by a committee of the CEN. Other standards arealso being discussed and developed.

In order for the standards to have greater value, manufacturers ofautomated teller machines would need to produce software that willenable the devices in their machines to operate in response to thestandardized instructions. Software which enables a particularmanufacturer's transaction function devices in an ATM to operate inaccordance with a standard is referred to in an XFS environment or otherstandardized environments, as a service provider or SP software. Somemanufacturers of automated teller machines have developed SP softwarefor the transaction function devices included in their machines.However, certain manufacturers place restrictions on the availability oftheir SP software. As a result it is not generally feasible for asoftware developer to develop a hardware independent softwareapplication for operating automated teller machines produced bydifferent manufacturers.

Further, the ability of application developers to develop applicationsmay present issues related to maintaining the proper operation of theATM. The ability of third party developers unassociated with an ATMmanufacturer to write software that can be loaded onto and operate theATM may present issues as to whether the software loaded on the ATM isauthorized as well as whether such a developer has met commitments thatthey may have related to the manufacturer or other third parties.

A further issue may arise with regard to entities that wish to operatedevices in conjunction with an automated teller machine that are notdevices for which standard service provider interfaces have beendeveloped and/or devices which require different relationships to otherATM transaction function devices than a device normally associated withsuch a service provider interface. In such cases it may not be costeffective for an ATM manufacturer to develop or support service providersoftware for devices that are not normally included in an automatedteller machine. As a result the capabilities of automated tellermachines to work in conjunction with such external devices may not bedeveloped.

Further issues may arise when software components provided by differententities are installed on an ATM. Uncertainty may arise as to whichsoftware component (or transaction function device) is the cause of amalfunction of the ATM.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

There exists a need for a system and method for facilitating thedistribution of software for operating automated teller machines andwhich will make software more readily available to owners of automatedteller machines and developers who wish to have a single softwareapplication that runs automated teller machines of differentmanufacturers. There further exists a need for a system and method forassuring that software which has been developed and/or modified by thirdparties, or that has been installed on ATMs is authorized by themanufacturer of the ATM or other authorizing entity. There furtherexists a need for assuring that third parties who develop or modify ATMsoftware abide by commitments that they had made to the ATM manufacture,other authorizing entity or the user community in general. There furtherexists a need for verifying that multiple software components fromdifferent sources are authorized to work together on an ATM, and formore readily identifying the source of a malfunction. There furtherexists a need for a system and method for supporting devices that arenot traditionally included in ATMs as adjunct devices to ATMs and toassure that such adjunct devices are authorized and supported.

It is an object of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention toprovide a method.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide a method of distributing automated teller machinesoftware.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide a method of distributing automated teller machinesoftware that will enhance the ability of owners of automated tellermachines to use software that can be run on automated teller machinesproduced by different manufacturers.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide a method in which advancements in automated tellermachine software are shared with the market so as to improve the qualityof automated teller machine software.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide a method for distributing automated teller machinesoftware that preserves heightened security for systems includingautomated teller machines.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated teller machine that is operative toverify that software installed thereon has been authorized by an entityassociated with the machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide anautomated teller machine which operates to more readily identify thesource of malfunctions.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated teller machine and system that isoperative to verify that a plurality of software components installed onan automated machine have been indicated as suitable for operationtogether.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention to provide an automated teller machine and method whichenables the machine to work in conjunction with an external device notgenerally operated in an automated teller machine.

Further objects of exemplary embodiments of the present invention willbe made apparent in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Inventionand the appended claims.

The foregoing objects are accomplished in a first exemplary embodimentby a method in which an entity develops a hardware independent softwareapplication for operating automated teller machines of differentmanufacturers. This may include for example, a software application thatcomplies with the XFS or other standard. In accordance with the firstexemplary method, the entity developing the application then offers toprovide the right to use the software to all owners of automated tellermachines regardless of brand at no charge.

In accordance with an exemplary form of the method, the entityoriginally developing the software application authorizes third parties,such as automated teller machine owners or software developers orothers, to modify and/or distribute the original and modified forms ofthe software. The right to modify and/or distribute the software isoffered in exchange for such third party's agreement to provide thesource code for such modified software to the entity offering theapplication. The entity offering the application may then further makethe modified forms of the software available in the same manner as theoriginal application. In an exemplary embodiment to further assure thatthe third parties modifying the software make their modificationsavailable, a condition to granting the rights to modify the softwareincludes an obligation to make available the source code for suchmodified software to any third party upon request.

In some exemplary embodiments in order to assure security of automatedteller machine systems, the requirement to provide modifications to theentity originally offering the application and/or to third parties, maybe restricted with regard to security software modifications. Suchsecurity software modifications may include modifications as may bespecifically defined by agreement, but would normally include only thosemodifications which if provided and made publicly available mayfacilitate the compromise of security of an automated teller machinesystem. In some exemplary embodiments such security softwaremodifications may not necessarily include techniques which rely onspecific keys, certificates or other electronic security features whichprovide security independent from the software itself and which areunique to the particular user. In one exemplary embodiment however, forsecurity software modifications that are not contributed to theapplication provider for redistribution to third parties, the entitymaking such modifications is required to provide a general descriptionof the security modifications made and the name of each entity to whichthe modified software has been provided. The entity offering theapplication would then make this information publicly available so thatit could be found by third parties.

In addition or in the alternative, exemplary embodiments may require aparty making security software modifications that are not contributed tothe generally available application, to make the source code for suchsecurity modifications available to any user who has received the codeor any person or entity that such a user has designated as their agentfor receiving the code. This may include for example another developerwhich a user of such a system wishes to have further modify thesoftware. Of course the obligations to contribute modifications and makeavailable further security software modifications would apply to anysubsequent modifications of the code.

In other exemplary embodiments entities requiring modifications to thesoftware application are urged through technological measures to providethe modified forms of the software to the entity offering the originalform of the software. This may be done for example, by including in theautomated teller machine at least one software verification device thatis operative to verify that a copy of the software installed on themachine has been provided to the entity. The software verificationdevice may operate for example, by verifying one or more verificationfeatures that are included in the software application by the entityoffering the original code after the third party had provided it to theentity. This may include for example, the third party providing themodified software to the entity, and the entity including verificationfeatures in the software such as a digital signature, and the entitythen providing the software with the digital signature back to thedeveloper or other entity who produced the modified version. In such asystem the software verification device in the ATM may operate to readand analyze the digital signature included in the software after it isinstalled to verify that the signature is a valid signature of theauthorizing entity.

In some alternative exemplary embodiments the ATM may include a softwareverification device that is operative to communicate with a remotecomputer operated under the auspices of the entity offering thesoftware. In such systems remote communication caused through operationof the software verification device, between the machine and the remotecomputer is operative to determine that the software installed in themachine has been provided to the entity. This may be done for example,by comparing identifying features of the software in the machine withsuch features of software deposited with the entity. Such identifyingfeatures may include a hash of all or a portion of the software and/orcomparing the magnitude of measurable parameters associated with thesoftware and/or other features or combinations thereof. Suchcommunication between the ATM and the remote computer associated withthe entity is operative to determine at least one result indicative ofthe relationship between the identifying features which establisheswhether the software has been provided to the entity and which is usedby the machine as the basis for allowing or preventing the software fromoperating at least one device of the machine.

In other exemplary embodiments the principles described may be used toverify that software that is not made generally available fordistribution and modification, is authorized by the manufacturer,licensor or other entity associated with the machine. This may includefor example situations where an ATM manufacturer, an ATM operator suchas a financial institution or other third party commissions anindependent developer to produce software to operate an ATM. At leastone software verification device may operate in the ATM to verify thatthe software which has been installed therein is the software that hasbeen provided to or otherwise authorized by the entity. Such approachesmay help to assure that independent developers or other third parties donot provide or install unauthorized software on ATMs. As can beappreciated, a requirement that the entity has received the software andin some manner authorized its use before the software will operate onthe ATM to carry out at least one type of transaction function minimizesthe risk of the use of unauthorized software.

In other exemplary embodiments the principles described herein may beused to facilitate the development of systems in which other devices notnormally operated in automated teller machines are nonetheless used asan adjunct thereto. Such adjunct devices may include for example,specialized money order, check or ticket printers which provide specialauthentication or other types of features on items that they produce.Other devices may include ticket acceptors or token return devices whichhave special requirements not normally associated with financialtransactions. Other devices may include for example, devices whichprovide goods or services of value such as for example, article rentaldevices which enable the user to rent or operate an article for a periodof time through payment made through the ATM. Other examples may includedevices which deliver various types of digital media such as video,music, text or other items. Other examples of devices may includetanning devices, aroma therapy devices, medication dispensing devices,oxygen delivery devices, beverage dispensing devices and other types ofdevices for which there is an associated financial transaction that canbe conducted through a connected ATM.

In some exemplary embodiments entities such as the ATM manufacturer orother entity, may provide the source code of its service providersoftware to third parties and grant the right to make modificationsthereto. Such third parties may develop modified forms of the serviceprovider software so as to enable the support of specialized deviceswhich are not normally included in the ATM. Such specialized devicesupport may facilitate the development and support for such adjunctexternal devices which the ATM manufacturer may not otherwise support.To assure that the modified forms of the service provider software aresuitable, some exemplary embodiments may require that such modifiedforms of the software be authorized by the entity such as themanufacturer of a machine. This enables the manufacturer of the machineor other entity to certify that the modified form of the software isappropriately suitable for operation in the machine and in the otherassociated device.

In some further exemplary embodiments multiple items of computersoftware may be installed in the ATM. In such exemplary embodiments thesoftware verification device may operate to determine that all of suchplurality of software items are authorized for operation on the machineby the entity. In addition, the machine may operate to verify that theplurality of software items that are installed on the machine arecompatible or otherwise authorized for use together on the machine. Suchcapabilities are provided so that the machine will not operate absent adetermination that the items are authorized and suitable for usetogether. Other exemplary embodiments may include software componentswhich operate independently to test the functionality of the componentindependently of other software components and/or devices. This mayfacilitate the identification of a malfunctioning software or hardwarecomponent from among a plurality of components that are interdependentin their normal operation. Of course it should be understood that thesefeatures and approaches are exemplary and in other features andembodiments other approaches may be used.

The descriptions provided herein are exemplary and all other devices,methods and systems encompassed by any of the claims below are withinthe scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an automated teller machine system whichmay be used to carry out transactions.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of hardware and software components in anexemplary automated teller machine.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a diagram representative of thedistribution of software in an accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view representative of a methodology in which anentity receives ATM software and assures that the software is authorizedby the entity through inclusion of verification features in thesoftware.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a methodology in which an entity assuresreceipt and authorizes software by verifying identifying featuresincluded in the software.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a further alternative methodology whichmultiple software items are authorized for use on an ATM.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a further alternative methodology in whichmultiple items of software are authorized for use on an ATM, and inwhich the system verifies compatibility of such multiple software itemsfor use on the ATM.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly FIG. 1, there is showntherein an automated teller machine system generally indicated 10. Thesystem includes an automated teller machine 12. Automated teller machine12 is alternatively referred to herein as an ATM. Automated tellermachine 12 of the exemplary embodiment is used by consumers to carry outbanking transactions. The exemplary ATM 12 is shown as including thereona user interface generally indicated 14. User interface 14 includes oneor more input devices and output devices. Input devices may be used bythe operator of the machine to provide information or instructions tothe machine. Output devices include devices for providing informationand instructions to a user. In this exemplary embodiment user interface14 includes an output screen 16 which serves an output device. Userinterface 14 of the exemplary embodiment further includes a speakerschematically indicated 18 for providing audible outputs to a user.

User interface 14 further includes a card reader schematically indicated20. The card reader in the exemplary embodiment is operative to readcards or other articles provided to the machine by a user which mayinclude information which identifies the user, a user's account or otherinformation. User interface 14 further includes function keys 22.Function keys 22 are positioned adjacent to screen 16 and enable a userto select options which may be presented to the user visually throughthe screen. A further input device in the exemplary embodiment includesa keypad 24. In this exemplary embodiment keypad 24 includes analphanumeric keypad as well as certain function keys.

The exemplary embodiment also includes an image capture device 26. Imagecapture device 26 may be operative to capture images of portions of auser. This may include for example capturing images of the user's facefor purposes of making a record of the transaction. Alternatively imagesof a user's face may be analyzed and used for purposes of identifyingthe user. In alternative embodiments the image capture device maycomprise an iris scanner or other biometric reader for purposes ofidentifying a particular user carrying out a transaction. Other inputdevices may also be provided on user interface 14. For example afingerprint reading device 28 is schematically represented. Fingerprintreading devices may be used in some embodiments to read fingerprint datafrom a user for purposes of identifying a user. It should be understoodthat fingerprint data, iris scan data or other biometric data may beused in some embodiments as an alternative or additional means foridentifying the user. Such means may be used as a substitute for or as acheck on data provided by a user to a card reader or other method forpurposes of verifying the user's identity or accounts.

The exemplary ATM 12 further includes in its user interface, a receiptprinter 30. In the exemplary embodiment receipt printer 30 is operativeto provide users with receipts or other data related to transactionswhich are conducted at the machine. It should be understood that inother embodiments different or additional types of output devices may beprovided including printers that provide users with statements or otherdocuments.

The exemplary ATM 12 further includes a cash dispenser schematicallyindicated 32. The exemplary cash dispenser is operative to dispense cashin the form of bills or currency notes to a user who conducts adispensing transaction. The exemplary ATM 12 further includes adepository schematically indicated 34. Depository 34 in the exemplaryembodiment is operative to accept deposits input by a user in the courseof certain types of transactions conducted at the machine.

It should be understood that the devices discussed in connection withATM 12 are exemplary. In other embodiments of ATMs, different types andnumbers of devices may be used. The type and character of the devicesmay depend on the particular type of ATM being operated and thecharacter of the transaction types to be conducted.

As schematically represented in FIG. 1, ATM 12 includes therein at leastone processor 36. Processor 36 is in operative connection with at leastone data store schematically indicated 38. The devices included in ATM12 are operated responsive to instructions carried out by the processorin accordance with computer software and data stored in the data store38. The discussion of an exemplary automated teller machine, componentsand the operation thereof are included in U.S. Pat. No. 6,334,117granted Dec. 25, 2001 and owned by the assignee of the presentinvention, which patent is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety as if fully rewritten herein. As can be appreciated the datastore includes software instructions and data that can be executedand/or utilized by the at least one processor in the machine to causethe machine to operate to carry out transactions for users of themachine. Software which includes the instructions may reside on and/orbe loaded into the data store from articles such as floppy disks, CDs,hard drives, memory cartridges, tape or other types of articles or mediacapable of holding such instructions.

ATM 12 is operative to carry out transactions for users throughcommunication with remote computers schematically indicated 40, 42 and44. ATM 12 includes at least one communication device such as a modem orother network interface device to enable such communication. The remotecomputers communicate with ATM 12 through at least one network 46. Theremote computers may be associated with financial institutions, sourcesof monetary value or other entities that can authorize the conduct oftransactions by a user at the machine. Messages exchanged between theATM 12 and the remote computers are operative to provide a remotecomputer which can authorize a transaction, with information concerningthe requested transaction. This may include for example, the type oftransaction, amount involved and the account or user requesting thetransaction. When the remote computer receives the information necessaryto determine if the transaction should be authorized, the remotecomputer operates in accordance with its programming to determine if thetransaction should be authorized.

The remote computer then sends one or more messages through the networkto indicate to the ATM 12 if the transaction should be carried out. Inresponse to an indication that the transaction is authorized the ATMwill operate responsive to the processor 36 to operate the transactionfunction devices and to complete the transaction. In the exemplaryembodiment the processor then causes the ATM 12 to communicate with theremote computer which authorized the transaction to indicate that thetransaction was completed or was not successfully completed. The remotecomputer in response to the message from the ATM may make the necessarydeductions or additions from accounts, record information or otherwiseappropriately account for the transactions conducted.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of some of the hardware andsoftware included in ATM 12. As previously discussed ATM 12 includestransaction function devices generally referred to schematically as 48.The transaction function devices may include the devices previouslydiscussed, only some of which are shown. These include for example thecard reader 20, printer 30, cash dispenser 32, depository 34, keypad 24.Other or additional transaction function devices are representedschematically by the device 50. It should be understood that device 50actually represents multiple items of transaction function devicehardware, and that all transaction function device hardware componentsare not shown herein for purposes of simplicity.

As represented in FIG. 2, the hardware of each transaction functiondevice generally has an associated software interface. These interfacesare schematically indicated 52. In some exemplary embodiments theinterfaces 52 comprise firmware which is resident on processorsassociated with the respective transaction function device. It should beunderstood that the nature of the interface and its character as eitherhardware or software will depend on the particular transaction functiondevice with which it is associated.

An exemplary software environment operating in processor 36 isschematically represented 54. Software environment 54 includes aplurality of service provider software or SPs indicated as SP software56. As previously discussed the exemplary service provider software isoperative to generally present an interface for each particular devicethat conforms to the requirements of the standard for the particulartype of device. Thus, for example the service provider softwareassociated with the cash dispenser presents an interface that enablesthe SP software to cause the cash dispenser of the particular brand andtype of ATM to operate in response to commands that have beenestablished as those which should cause a cash dispenser in an ATM tooperate. The SP software 56 in the exemplary embodiment is operative tocause operation of the transaction function devices as well as tocontrol certain relationships between such devices so as to avoid theneed to account for such relationships in other software components. Itshould be understood that this approach is exemplary and in otherembodiments the programming regarding relationships between devices maybe included in other software layers as appropriate in accordance withthe particular standards to which the software is written. Further, aslater discussed additional software may be provided such as verificationsoftware which is operative to reduce the risk that unauthorizedsoftware is allowed to operate transaction function devices in the ATM.

In the exemplary embodiment of the software environment 54, a middlelayer 58 is used. In the exemplary embodiment the middle layer includesINvolve™ software which is available from Nexus Software, Inc. ofRaleigh, N.C. In alternative embodiments the middle layer may includeAPTRA™ software available from NCR Corporation or other middle layersoftware. The middle layer software is alternatively referred to hereinas “middleware.” In the exemplary embodiment the middle layer softwareis operative to account for any differences or special circumstancesthat may exist which may make the service provider software andassociated commands different for different brands of hardware. Forexample the recognized standards for automated teller machine devicesmay not account for all of the features or functions available in agiven transaction function device. Standards often leave open theopportunity for additional instructions or messages to accommodate suchdevices. Further, as later discussed certain machines may include orhave operated in connection therewith devices for which there is noapplicable published standard.

Exemplary middle layer 58 includes software which is operative to causeoperation of at least some transaction function devices and to handledifferences between various types of service provider software so as toavoid the need for the developer of the application to have knowledge ofand/or to account for them. In addition the exemplary form of the middlelayer 58 may include tools or other devices that may be useful in theoperation of the automated teller machine. This may include for examplefeatures such as data compression to facilitate the printing of graphicson forms. The middle layer may also include software that deals withparticular service or diagnostic functions. It should be understood thatthe middle layer 58 discussed herein is exemplary and in otherembodiments different properties of the middle layer may be provided oralternatively no middle layer may be used.

In exemplary software environment 54 application software 60 isprovided. In the exemplary embodiment application software 60 is ahardware independent software application which is suitable foroperating ATMs of different manufacturers. Such ATMs may include forexample ATMs manufactured by Diebold, Incorporated, NCR Corporation,Fujitsu or Wincor-Nixdorf or other manufacturers. The exemplaryapplication software 60 includes software which is operative to causethe transaction function devices to carry out functions which arerequired for operation of the automated teller machine. The applicationalso provides and receives instructions in accordance with the standardsthat enable the operation of ATM devices and/or the middle layer 58.

Exemplary functions provided by the application may include a browserfor the processing of markup language documents. The application mayinclude the functionality of providing the instructions to the othersoftware layers for handling stored value transactions such as movingmoney between electronic purse devices such as smart cards. Theapplication may include the functionality for delivering the messages toand receiving responses from other software components which causes theprocessor to carry out the various transactions associated with the ATMmachine. These transactions may include the dispense of cash, thereceipt of deposits or other functionality provided through the machine.Other aspects of the application may include certain security andcommunications features and/or features for carrying out theinstallation of the software, the configuration thereof as well astransaction login and diagnostic features. Other exemplary features mayinclude maintaining a journal of transactions conducted, the capabilityfor monitoring the operation of the ATM remotely. Other functions whichmay be included in the application software may include certainbiometric analysis or reading capabilities as well as capabilities forproviding customer relationship management and advertising. Otherfunctions may include aspects associated with imaging of documents suchas checks, providing maintenance and testing functions for monitoringoperation or for purposes of managing cash which may be dispensed fromor received by the machine. It should be understood that these functionssupported by the hardware independent software application are exemplaryand in other embodiments lesser numbers, greater numbers, other ordifferent functions may be provided.

The exemplary software environment 54 also includes an operating systemschematically indicated 62. The operating system may comprise Windowssoftware available from Microsoft® Linux or other suitable operatingsystem software. As represented by devices 64 and 66, other devices inthe ATM may be operative to communicate with the software environmentand such devices are not operated through the use of service providersoftware. Such devices may include for example communication devices,and other devices for which operative capability is provided by thefunctions included in the operating system, or in the middle layer.

It should be understood that the arrangement of software componentsshown in FIG. 2 is exemplary and in other embodiments other arrangementsmay be used.

In accordance with a first exemplary method, the development and use ofhardware independent software applications for automated teller machinesis made generally available to appropriate users at no charge. Thedistribution of such software is schematically represented in FIG. 3. Itshould be understood that for purposes of this disclosure “no charge”does not necessarily mean absolutely free, but rather may include anamount charged that is substantially less than the reasonable value ofthe particular item.

As schematically represented in FIG. 3, in accordance with an exemplarymethod, application software 60 is offered by an entity to owners ofATMs, developers and others for no charge. For example the entity thatis the original developer of the application 60 offers to grant rightsto use the application to all owners of ATMs at no charge. Such ownersof ATMs are schematically represented 68 and 70 in FIG. 3. In accordancewith the exemplary embodiment, the application is also offered to thirdparties including developers and ATM owners with the right to modify theapplication at no charge. Such developers that are not ATM owners areschematically represented 72 and 74 in FIG. 3. In this exemplaryembodiment the offer to ATM owners, third party developers and others touse and modify the application at no charge is contingent upon suchentities giving the entity originally offering the application 60, suchmodifications and associated rights to use, modify, display, perform,copy and distribute the modifications and modified forms of theapplication at no charge. The entity providing the application is alsoreturned the modified forms of the source code along with all associatedrights necessary to utilize or provide such modified version to thirdparties. In the exemplary embodiment the entity originally providing theapplication may be associated with the ATMs. It may be for example, themanufacturer of the ATMs. Alternatively, in other embodiments the entityoffering the application may be a particular operator of ATMs such as afinancial institution. Of course, in other embodiments, other entitiesmay be the original provider of the application.

In this exemplary embodiment third parties are also offered the right todistribute the application including modified versions thereof at nocharge. However, again such modifications including source code and theassociated rights, must be provided to the entity originally offeringthe application. In addition such modifications also must be provided inthe exemplary embodiment in source code form along with the associatedrights to any third party upon request. In accordance with the exemplaryembodiment the modified forms of the application 60 are again madeavailable by the entity originally offering to provide the software. Theobligations of entities to provide any modified forms of the applicationto the entity originally offering the application as well as to thirdparties, may be made enforceable in some embodiments in accordance witha license agreement to which parties who receive the application eitherdirectly or indirectly are required to be bound. Alternatively, or inaddition, technological measures may be used as hereafter discussed.

In accordance with an exemplary method, the use of the hardwareindependent software application is encouraged. Further improvements andother functions that may be produced are made available to others. Inaddition the availability of the software facilitates the capability ofhaving a software application that runs appropriately on ATM hardware ofany brand which an ATM user may desire to operate. This results in theATM user being able to use their modified form of the softwareapplication on any or all of the ATMs that they may choose to purchasefrom any manufacturer without incurring charges associated withacquisition of the software application other than those charges thatmay be associated with modifications the user cares to make or havemade.

In some exemplary embodiments in order to enhance security, ATM ownersor developers may develop security software modifications which ifgenerally publicly disclosed could place the security of automatedteller machine systems at risk. Such security software modificationswould include modifications specific to a particular user's system whichprovide that user with enhanced security. In some exemplary embodimentssuch security software modifications would not be required to beprovided to the entity originally offering the application software orto other entities absent certain circumstances. It should be understoodhowever that it is contemplated that in some exemplary embodiments,security software modifications that rely for security primarily onkeys, certificates or other separate elements that are unique and whichmaintain the secure nature of the operation of the software applicationeven if the methodology of operation becomes known, will not be exemptfrom the requirement of providing the modified source code to the entityoriginally offering the application and/or to third parties.

In order to avoid certain developers from producing forms of theapplication software which are not generally available by declaring themto include security software modifications, some exemplary embodimentsmay impose upon persons modifying the application to comply with certaincontractual requirements. Such requirements may include for example arequirement for providing to the entity originally offering theapplication an indication that such security modifications have beenmade and/or a non-confidential description of such securitymodifications. In addition or in the alternative, an entity making suchsecurity software modifications may be required in some embodiments toprovide to the entity offering the application the name, address and/orother information concerning each entity that has received softwareincluding such security software modifications.

In some exemplary embodiments contractual restrictions are imposed suchthat an entity that has produced security software modifications iscontractually obligated to provide such security software modificationsincluding the source code therefor, to any entity who has receivedsoftware including such modifications legally, as well as to any entitysuch as a third party developer who requests such modifications onbehalf of an entity who operates a system which includes suchmodifications. This is schematically represented in FIG. 3 by user bank77. User bank 77 may have originally received a modified form of thehardware independent application software from developer 72. Themodified form of the application may include security softwaremodifications. In accordance with an exemplary method the developer 72must inform the entity originally offering the application that suchsecurity software modifications have been made, the nature of suchmodifications and information indicating that software including suchmodifications has been provided to the user bank. If at a later date theuser bank 77 wishes to acquire the source code for such securitymodifications, the developer 72 is required to provide it. In additionor in the alternative, if user bank 77 wishes to retain developer 74 tomodify the software application being used by user bank 77, developer 72upon receipt of appropriate information indicating that developer 74 hasbeen authorized by user bank 77 to receive the security modifications,developer 72 is required to provide them.

In this way the hardware independent software application is preventedin some embodiments from being used to develop proprietary forms of thesoftware. As can be appreciated in this exemplary embodimentrestrictions and obligations related to use and distribution of theapplication are made applicable as appropriate to all who subsequentlyuse and receive it. Of course as with security modifications, in someembodiments other limitations and restrictions may be applicable. Itshould be understood that the particular system and method shown areexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments technological measures may be used to assure than anentity originally offering application software is provided with themodifications thereto made by third parties. An exemplary system forassuring this is represented in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 shows an exemplary ATM80. ATM 80 is generally similar to ATM 12 except as specificallydiscussed. ATM 80 includes transaction function devices schematicallyrepresented 82 of the type previously discussed. Transaction functiondevices 82 are operated through interfaces 84. ATM 80 further includessoftware components that operate in the at least one processor of theATM, including application software 86, middleware software 88 andservice provider software 90.

Exemplary ATM 80 further includes a security software layerschematically represented 92. It should be understood however, thatalthough in the exemplary embodiment the security software layer isshown as software, in some embodiments the functions discussed inconnection with the security software may be performed by firmware orhardware devices or a combination of hardware, firmware and/or software.Exemplary security software operates in conjunction with the at leastone processor and serves as a software verification device. The softwareverification device serves to assure that at least some of the softwarecomponents installed on the ATM 80 have been authorized by at least oneentity that is associated with the machine. This may be for example, theATM manufacturer who is entitled to receive all modified forms of thesoftware application which the manufacturer has made available fordistribution. Alternatively, the authorizing entity may be anotherentity such as a trusted third party operating at the direction of theATM manufacturer or another third party such as a financial institutionoperating ATMs. In some embodiments there may be multiple authorizingentities for a single software component, or multiple authorizingentities each associated with different software components that areinstalled on the machine.

As schematically represented in FIG. 4 prior to operation on the ATM 80,a developer creates an application or a modified form of the generallyavailable application which developer is schematically represented 94.In an exemplary embodiment the developer provides the application to theATM manufacturer, trusted third party or other authorizing entity forpurposes of including one or more verification features schematicallyindicated 96 with the application. These verification features mayinclude features that can be verified through operation of the softwareverification device as authorized by the entity. The ATM 80 may verifythat once the application has been installed it is authorized by theentity. It is only after the software verification device is determinedto be authorized by the entity, does the verification device allow thesoftware component to cause the operation of one or more transactionfunction devices of the ATM. This may include for example, preventingthe software component that is determined as not authorized from causingoperation of a cash dispenser under any circumstances. Alternatively,the determination that a software component is not authorized mayprevent operation of one or more transaction function devices responsiveto the software component only under certain circumstances or forparticular transactions. The approach taken may vary depending on thenature of the software component and security device.

Verification features included in software components may include, forexample, a digital signature produced responsive to the application.Such digital signatures may be comprised of a hash of all or portions ofthe application, may be based on certain measurable parameters of theapplication, or other features or combinations thereof, which can beused to document the authenticity of the verification features. Forexample, the verification features may be included in the application bythe entity such that when analyzed by the software verification deviceunder the circumstances in which the application has been installed inthe ATM 80, the verification features will produce a particular resultthat is indicative that the application has been authorized by theentity. The software verification device will generally operate toprevent the application from causing the operation of one or moretransaction function devices unless the verification features aredetermined by the software verification device as indicating that theapplication has been authorized by the appropriate one or moreauthorizing entities. In the exemplary embodiment if the software is notdetermined to be authorized, even though it may be installed on the ATMand may run to at least some extent, the security device prevents atleast one transaction device from operating responsive to that softwarecomponent under at least some circumstances.

As can be appreciated in exemplary embodiments the approachschematically represented in FIG. 4 assures that modified forms of theapplication are made available to the entity such as the ATMmanufacturer who is entitled to receive the modified form of thesoftware. In addition or in the alternative, aspects of the approachrepresented in FIG. 4 may be used to assure that software applicationsinstalled on an ATM are appropriately authorized such as by having beenlicensed by the ATM manufacturer or other entity. In addition or in thealternative the approach represented may assure that the software whichoperates on an ATM has been tested and certified by the entity asworking appropriately on the ATM or the type of ATM on which it has beeninstalled. Such approaches may be used in circumstances where softwareis not made generally available, to assure appropriate licensing and toavoid the operation of the machine by unreliable and possibly fraudulentsoftware. It should further be understood that although the approachschematically represented in FIG. 4 is described in referenceapplication software, in other embodiments similar approaches may beused with other software components on the ATM.

FIG. 5 schematically represents an alternative approach for assuringthat software that operates on an ATM has been authorized by anappropriate entity. Exemplary ATM 98 shown as FIG. 5 is generallysimilar to ATMS 80 and 12 previously discussed, ATM 98 further includessecurity software 100 which is part of a security device and operates toprevent at least one other software component from operating at leastone transaction function device unless the software component isdetermined by the security device to have been authorized by anauthorizing entity.

In the embodiment schematically represented in FIG. 5, applicationsoftware that has been produced or modified by a developer schematicallyrepresented 102, is required to be provided to an entity 104 which insome exemplary embodiments may be an entity associated with the ATMmanufacturer or other third party as previously discussed. However, theexemplary approach represented in FIG. 5 does not require theapplication developer to provide the application to the entity forinclusion of the entity's verification features prior to distribution ofthe application and installation on ATM 98. Rather, in the exemplaryembodiment represented in FIG. 5, the software is provided to theauthorizing entity and is also installed in the ATM. The authorizingentity 104 is associated with a remote computer 108 that is enabled tobe in operative connection with the ATM 98 through a communicationdevice. Remote computer 108 includes the application and/or instructionsor other data corresponding to the application 106 in an associated datastore. In this exemplary embodiment the software verification device inthe ATM is operative to analyze identifying features associated with theapplication 106. Further the software verification device is operativeto cause the ATM 98 to verify through communication with the remotecomputer 108 that the identifying features associated with theapplication 106, correspond with identifying features associated withthe application 106 available at the remote computer. Such identifyingfeatures may include for example, a hash of all or a portion of theapplication, one or more measured parameters associated with theapplication, combinations thereof or other features which can becalculated or measured by the software verification device in the ATMand/or the remote computer 108 for purposes of verifying that suchfeatures have a relationship which is representative that softwareapplications correspond.

As can be appreciated for example, the software verification device inthe ATM may operate to cause the ATM to resolve one or more verificationfeatures and communicate data corresponding to such features with theremote computer 108. The remote computer 108 may also resolvecorresponding verification features and determine through suchcommunication whether such verification features as resolved by the ATMand the remote computer have an appropriate relationship so as toindicate that the software on the ATM is authorized. As can beappreciated, the communication between the ATM and the remote computermay involve appropriate encryption techniques and techniques for securecommunication so as to minimize the risk of interception of thecommunications by unauthorized persons. As can also be appreciatedvarious approaches may be used in embodiments to resolve and verify thatthere are appropriate relationships between identifying features in theapplication at the ATM and provided to the entity, and to reduce therisk that sensitive information will be intercepted.

The approach represented in FIG. 5 assures that the authorizing entityhas received the application. This approach may be used in situationswhere the application is made generally available to some or all users,as well as in situations to assure appropriate licensing orcertification of the application. It should further be understood thatthe approach represented in FIG. 5 may be used in conjunction with othertypes of ATM software other than the application.

In some embodiments the approach represented in FIG. 4 may also be usedin conjunction with the approach in FIG. 5. For example, some ATMsoftware components may include verification features which may beverified by the software verification device in the ATM withoutcommunication to a remote computer. Other software components may beverified through identifying features verified through such remotecommunication. Alternatively or in addition, the same ATM softwarecomponents may include both verification features which can be validatedlocally as well as identifying features that can be validated throughremote communication. Of course, in alternative embodiments otherapproaches may be used.

A further alternative approach is represented schematically in FIG. 6.In this alternative an ATM 110 includes software of the type previouslydiscussed including security software 112 which serves as part of asoftware verification device. As in other embodiments, the embodimentrepresented in FIG. 6 is intended to enable operation of a softwarecomponent on the ATM 110 only when the software component has beenauthorized by an authorizing entity referred to as 114.

In this exemplary embodiment a developer referred to as 116 isauthorized to develop a plurality of software components. The softwarecomponents may include for example, an application, middleware andservice provider software as shown. Alternatively, the developer mayprovide modified forms of some or all of such items. As schematicallyrepresented in FIG. 6 the plurality of software components developed tobe installed on the ATM may be provided to the entity 114 for purposesof providing verification features therein. Such verification featuresmay include for example, one or more digital signatures based onfeatures of some or all of the software components. In such cases thesoftware verification device in the ATM 110 may operate to prevent theoperation of one or more transaction function devices responsive to thesoftware component unless the verification features are verified asindicating that the software is authorized by the entity.

Alternatively or in addition as represented in FIG. 6, a remote computer118 associated with the authorizing entity may include the softwarecomponent or instructions or data corresponding thereto, in operativeconnection therewith and may operate to resolve identifying featuresassociated with such software. Through communication with the ATMresponsive to the software verification device the remote computer andthe software verification device may determine that the softwareinstalled on the ATM is authorized. This may be done through theresolution of identifying features and communication between the ATM andthe remote computer in a manner previously discussed.

Each approach represented serves to assure that the multiple softwarecomponents that have been developed or modified by the developer 116have been provided to and/or authorized by the entity 114. In someembodiments the authorization may be associated with the entity havingcertified the software for proper operation, the software having beenproperly licensed or some other aspect of the software having beenanalyzed or certified for purposes of assuring that its operation on theATM 110 is appropriate.

The approach schematically represented in FIG. 6 may be useful insituations where persons wish to obtain support for conductingtransactions through an ATM that involves devices that are not normallyassociated with ATMs. Such devices may include for example, an externaldevice schematically represented 120 that is not normally found in anATM, but which may be operated in conjunction with an ATM. This mayinclude, a device which may be operated in conjunction with a particularfinancial transaction that may be carried out by the ATM. As a resultthe ATM application may accommodate the carrying out of such atransaction in combination with the operation of other transactionfunction devices. Such external devices may include devices mounted inan adjacent cabinet or other apparatus or may be remotely connected tothe ATM. For example, such devices may include printers of checks, moneyorders or tickets which incorporate features not generally associatedwith printers found in ATMs. Other exemplary devices may include devicesfor accepting tickets, tokens or other items which may be redeemed forvalue. Alternative devices may include for example, an article rentaldevice which provides the capability for an ATM user to rent or use aparticular item for a period of time. For example, this may include adevice which enables a person to rent a vehicle and to utilize thevehicle for a period of time. Alterative devices may include a digitalmedia delivery device. This may include for example, a device whichenables the delivery of audio, video or textual content through humanperceivable output devices and/or on machine readable media. Otherexemplary devices may include a tanning device, an aroma therapy device,a medication dispensing device, an oxygen delivery device, a beveragedispensing device or other devices which may be used to provide orredeem goods or services.

The approach schematically represented in FIG. 6 may enable thirdparties interested in having transactions that are not normally carriedout in conjunction with the operation of an ATM to nonetheless beachieved by providing developers with the necessary software andinformation to develop support for such devices. Support for suchdevices may not normally be economically feasible for the manufacturerof ATMs or for financial institutions responsible for operating suchATMs. However, other entities specializing in such devices may wish todo so. Aspects of the embodiments shown which help to assure that anentity responsible for authorizing such software has authorized thesoftware before it will operate the devices helps to assure that suchsoftware is properly implemented and that the software operates properlywhen used in conjunction with the ATM and the corresponding externaldevice. Of course it should be understood that this approach isexemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIG. 7 schematically represents yet another approach. FIG. 7 representsthe situation where multiple software components used in an ATM may havebeen produced or modified by different development entities. ATM 122includes application software, middleware software and service providersoftware operating therein. The application software is provided by anapplication developer referred to as 124, the middleware is developed bya middleware developer 126 and the service provider software is providedby a developer 128. As represented in FIG. 7 an authorizing entity suchas the ATM manufacturer or other third party 130 receives the software.The entity 130 may also be responsible for testing and certifying thesoftware, licensing the software or other activities. The entity 130 mayalso provide verification features that are included in some or all ofthe software components as previously discussed. Further in someexemplary embodiments the entity 130 may include in the software,features which indicate whether a software component is suitable foroperation with one or more certain other software and/or hardwarecomponents. These features may include in some embodiments theverification features. In other embodiments it may include other oradditional features that are included in or which may be associated withthe software.

As represented in FIG. 7 the entity 130 may further operate a remotecomputer 132. Remote computer 132 is adapted to communicate with the ATM122. In some embodiments security software 134 operates as part of asoftware verification device in the manner previously discussed toverify the authorization of one or more of the software components bycommunication with the remote computer. Further, in some exemplaryembodiments the software verification device is operative to verifyeither at the ATM and/or through communication with the remote computer132 that the software components installed on the machine are suitablefor operation together, or with one or more hardware devices in the ATM.

As can be appreciated in exemplary embodiments security software orother appropriate software or hardware may operate as a softwareverification device, and may serve to prevent operation of one or moretransaction function devices by the software unless the software isverified as authorized by the entity and that the software componentshave been indicated by the entity as suitable for use together and/orwith the particular hardware. Responsive to determining that suchsoftware components are authorized and are suitable for use, thesoftware verification device enables the software to operate one moretransaction function devices to carry out at least one transactionfunction.

As can be appreciated in various embodiments ATMs may include inoperative connection with the processor, devices for reading mediabearing instructions which comprise the software. This may include, forexample, a CD drive, disk drive, tape drive or other suitable device forenabling the processor to read the instructions thereon. Such mediareading devices may be used to load the software components onto the ATMfrom appropriate media.

In further alternative embodiments provisions may be made forfacilitating the identification of malfunctioning hardware or softwarecomponents. This may be particularly important in the operation of opensystems where different entities provide ATM hardware or variouscomponents thereof or service thereto, as well as the various softwarecomponents that operate on the ATM. As can be appreciated, in carryingout many ATM functions multiple software and hardware components operatein an interdependent manner to carry out a transaction. For example, theapplication software may generate messages to carry out one or morefunctions which are directed to the middleware component. The middlewarecomponent responsive to the message from the application, generates oneor more messages to the service provider software component. The serviceprovider software responsive to the one or more messages from themiddleware, generates one or more messages to operate transactionfunction devices. The devices generally cause one or more responses tobe provided back to the service provider software. The service providersoftware will provide one or more responses to the middleware component,which may provide one or more responses to the application component. Ascan be appreciated, if the ATM does not work it may be challenging todetermine the cause of the problem.

In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the software components isconfigured to cause the processor responsive to one or more inputs, toconduct one or more tests of one or more of the software component'sfunctional capabilities. In some cases, this testing is enabled to beconducted by the component independent of at least one other softwarecomponent that must normally work in an interdependent manner with thesoftware subject to test to carry out an ATM transaction or function.The processor responsive to at least one result produced by the test,provides at least one output from the ATM that is indicative of theresults. Inputs that cause the test to be conducted and the at least oneoutput produced by the machine indicative of test results may includeoutputs through a screen or other output device that can be perceived bya servicer at the ATM. Alternatively or in addition, the inputsinstructing the processor to conduct the test may be received by the ATMfrom a remote computer and the outputs indicative of results of the testmay be communicated through a communication device from the ATM to aremote computer. Of course other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments the software component with the test capabilitiesmay include or operate in conjunction with instructions which simulatethe operation of other software and/or transaction function devices. Forexample, in executing the functional test capabilities, the softwarecomponent may cause the processor to present to the software one or moreappropriate responses that would be received from another software(and/or hardware) component operating properly in the machine. In thisway the software component may test one or more of its own functionalcapabilities without having to rely on the proper functioning of atleast one other software or hardware component.

In some embodiments the testing of some software components may includetesting the operation of one or more interrelated hardware or softwarecomponents. This may include for example the service provider softwareconducting tests which actually cause transaction function devices tooperate. In this way the service provider software which is often aclose layer to the transaction function devices can verify not only itsown proper operation, but also the operation of at least some of thehardware devices. In some embodiments the outputs provided that areindicative of results of one or more tests may include informationindicative of a particular device, sensor, module, driver or otherhardware or software component in the ATM which did not fulfill one ormore tests.

In some embodiments a software component may have the capability toconduct a test of its own functional capabilities independent of anyother hardware or software, as well as to conduct at least one test inwhich the software operates in conjunction with other hardware orsoftware. For example, the service provider software may cause theprocessor to operate to conduct at least one test where at least oneproper response from a transaction function device is simulated.Thereafter if the results of the test of the software indicates theservice provider software is functioning properly, another testexercising one or more actual transaction function devices may beconducted, and an output indicative of the results provided responsiveto operation of at least one ATM processor. In this way a problem can bemore readily identified as involving either the software component or ahardware component.

Alternatively or in addition, software components may be configured totest their own functionality independently, and/or may be configured totest interoperation with one or more other software components. In thisway the ATM can provide for example, outputs indicative of test resultsfor each tested component, as well as the functionality that two or moresoftware components (plus perhaps hardware components) provide together.In some embodiments testing capabilities may be included so thatadditional testing of components can be done so that components can betested together until a problem area is identified. Such testing canalso be done in some embodiments using a plurality of softwarecomponents that each test operability with another software component toisolate the source of problems. Further, in some embodiments suchcapabilities may provide servicers with the capabilities for providingwork arounds for problems, including the ability to diagnose and providethe remedy of work around remotely from the ATM. Of course otherapproaches may be used.

As can be appreciated the features of providing verification thatsoftware components are authorized to work in the ATM, as well as thatsoftware components are authorized to operate or be used together, mayor may not be used in ATMs with software that includes diagnosticcapabilities like those described. Further in some embodiments,verification features and identifying aspects of software components canbe used in determining diagnostic capabilities as well as in determiningthe authority of an entity attempting to make changes to the machine orits software configuration. Of course the approaches and usage describedherein are exemplary and the scope of the invention is not limitedthereto.

It should further be understood that although the exemplary forms of theinvention have been described with regard to software having aparticular architecture and which include applications which maygenerally be operated in ATM hardware provided by a plurality ofmanufacturers, the principles of embodiments of the invention maybe usedin conjunction with other types of ATMs and hardware and softwarearchitectures.

Thus the new automated banking machine software, system and method ofthe exemplary forms of the present invention achieve the above statedobjectives, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of priorsystems, solve problems and attains the desirable results describedherein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposesand are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions andillustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is notlimited to the exact details shown and described.

In the following claims any feature described as a means for performinga function shall be construed as encompassing any means known to thoseskilled in the art to be capable of performing the recited function, andshall not be limited to the structures shown herein or mere equivalentsthereof.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are setforth in the appended claims.

1. Apparatus comprising: an automated teller machine associated with anentity, including: a plurality of transaction function devices includinga cash dispenser; at least one processor in operative connection with atleast one data store; first software operative in the at least oneprocessor and adapted to cause the at least one transaction functiondevice to operate; at least one software verification device; whereinthe at least one processor is in operative connection with the pluralityof transaction function devices and the at least one softwareverification device, and wherein the software verification device isoperative to prevent the first software from causing operation of the atleast one transaction function device and to cause the machine todetermine if the first software is authorized by the entity to operate,and wherein the software verification device is operative responsive tosuch determination to enable the first software to cause operation ofthe at least one transaction function device.
 2. The apparatus accordingto claim 1 wherein the automated teller machine further comprises:service provider software operative in the at least one processor andenabling operation of the machine responsive to application softwareadapted to operate automated teller machines of a plurality of differentmanufacturers, wherein at least one of the service provider software andthe application software comprises the first software.
 3. The apparatusaccording to claim 2 wherein the application software comprises thefirst software, and wherein the application software comprises at leastone verification feature included in the application software by theentity, and wherein the at least one verification device is operative todetermine if the application software is authorized by the entity tooperate responsive to the at least one verification feature.
 4. Theapparatus according to claim 3 wherein the at least one verificationfeature includes a digital signature associated with the applicationsoftware.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the at least oneverification feature includes a hash of at least a portion of the firstsoftware.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the verificationfeature includes at least one measurable parameter of the firstsoftware.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the at least oneverification device is operative to cause the machine to determine ifthe first software is authorized by the entity without the machinecommunicating with a remote computer.
 8. The apparatus according toclaim 4 wherein the at least one verification device is operative tocause the machine to verify the digital signature without the machinecommunicating with a remote computer.
 9. The apparatus according toclaim 2 and further comprising: a remote computer associated with theentity; wherein the at least one verification device is operative tocause the machine to communicate with the remote computer, and whereinthe determination that the first software is authorized by the entity ismade responsive to communication with the remote computer.
 10. Theapparatus according to claim 9 wherein the first software is inoperative connection with the remote computer, and wherein at least oneof the machine and the remote computer is operative to resolve at leastone identifying feature of the first software, and wherein thedetermination is made responsive to the at least one resolvedidentifying feature.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 10 whereineach of the machine and the remote computer are operative to resolve theat least one identifying feature, and the determination is maderesponsive to a corresponding relationship between at least oneidentifying feature resolved by each of the machine and the remotecomputer.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the at leastone identifying feature is resolved responsive to at least onemeasurable parameter of the first software.
 13. The apparatus accordingto claim 11 wherein the at least one identifying feature comprises ahash of at least a portion of the first software.
 14. The apparatusaccording to claim 1 and further comprising: second software other thanthe first software operative in the at least one processor and adaptedto cause the at least one transaction function device to operate; andwherein the at least one software verification device is operative toprevent the second software from causing operation of the at least onetransaction function device and to cause the machine to determine if thesecond software is authorized by the entity to operate in the machine,and responsive to the determinations concerning the first software andthe second software, the at least one software verification device isoperative to enable the first software and the second software to causeoperation of at least one transaction function device.
 15. The apparatusaccording to claim 14 wherein the at least one transaction functiondevice enabled to be operated responsive to the determinations, includesthe cash dispenser.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 14 wherein theat least one software verification device is further operative to causethe machine to determine whether the first and second software areindicated by the entity to be suitable for operation together in themachine, and wherein the at least one software verification device isoperative to prevent operation of the at least one transaction functiondevice unless it is determined that the first and second software isindicated as suitable by the entity for such operation.
 17. Theapparatus according to claim 16 wherein the first and second softwarecomprise at least two of application software, middleware software, andservice provider software.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 16wherein the determination made responsive to the at least one softwareverification device as to whether the first and second software areindicated by the entity as suitable for operation together in themachine, is made responsive to first and second verifying featuresincluded in the first and second software respectively, by the entity.19. The apparatus according to claim 18 wherein the machine is operativeto determine if the first and second software are indicated as suitablefor operation together without the machine connecting to a remotecomputer.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 16 and furthercomprising: a remote computer associated with the entity, the remotecomputer having accessible data representative of whether the first andsecond software are indicated by the entity as suitable for operationtogether in an automated teller machine; and wherein the determinationresponsive to the at least one software verification device as towhether the first and second software are suitable for operationtogether in the automated teller machine, is made responsive tocommunication by the machine with the remote computer.
 21. The apparatusaccording to claim 20 wherein a copy of at least one of the first andsecond software is in operative connection with the remote computer, andwherein the machine and the remote computer are operative to determineat least one identifying feature of the at least one of the first andsecond software, and wherein the software verification device isoperative to cause the machine to determine that the at least one firstor second software in the machine is authorized by the entity responsiveto a relationship between the at least one identifying featuredetermined by each of the machine and the remote computer.
 22. Theapparatus according to claim 21 wherein the at least one verifyingfeature comprises a hash of at least a portion of at least one of thefirst and second software.
 23. The apparatus according to claim 21wherein the at least one identifying feature comprises a measurableparameter of at least a portion of the at least one first and secondsoftware.
 24. The apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the at leastone identifying feature comprises at least one of a hash and ameasurable parameter of at least a portion of both of the first andsecond software.
 25. The apparatus according to claim 1 and furthercomprising: an external device operatively connected with the at leastone processor of the automated teller machine, but not included in themachine; and wherein the first software is operative to cause operationof the external device and at least one transaction function device. 26.The apparatus according to claim 25 wherein the first software comprisesservice provider software operating in the at least one processor andenabling operation of the machine responsive to application softwareadapted to operate automated teller machines of a plurality of differentmanufacturers.
 27. The apparatus according to claim 26 wherein theexternal device comprises at least one of an article rental device, anarticle purchase device, a digital media delivery device, a tanningdevice, an aroma therapy device, a medication dispensing device, anoxygen delivery device, a beverage dispensing device, a money orderprinting device, a check printing device, a ticket printing device, atoken delivery device, a token receiving device, and a ticket receivingdevice.
 28. An apparatus comprising: an automated teller machineassociated with an entity, including; a plurality of transactionfunction devices including a cash dispenser; at least one processor inoperative connection with at least one data store; service providersoftware operative in the at least one processor and enabling operationof the machine responsive to application software adapted to operateautomated teller machines of a plurality of different manufacturers;wherein at least one of the service provider software and theapplication software is adapted to cause the at least one transactionfunction device to operate; at least one software verification device;wherein the at least one processor is in operative connection with theplurality of transaction function devices and the at least one softwareverification device, and wherein the software verification device isoperative to prevent the at least one of the service provider softwareand the application software from causing operation of the at least onetransaction function device and to cause the machine to determine if theat least one of the service provider software and application softwareis authorized by the entity to operate, and wherein the softwareverification device is operative responsive to such determination toenable the at least one of the service provider software and theapplication software to cause operation of the at least one transactionfunction device.
 29. Apparatus comprising: an automated teller machineassociated with an entity, including: a plurality of transactionfunction devices including a cash dispenser; at least one processor inoperative connection with at least one data store; first softwareoperative in the at least one processor and adapted to cause the atleast one transaction function device to operate; second softwareoperative in the at least one processor and adapted to cause at leastone transaction function device to operate; at least one softwareverification device; wherein the at least one processor is in operativeconnection with the plurality of transaction function devices and the atleast one software verification device, and wherein the at least onesoftware verification device is operative to prevent the first softwarefrom causing operation of the at least one transaction function deviceand to cause the machine to determine if the first software isauthorized by the entity to operate, wherein the at least one softwareverification device is operative to prevent the second software fromcausing operation of the at least one transaction function device and tocause the machine to determine if the second software is authorized bythe entity to operate in the machine, wherein the at least one softwareverification device is further operative to cause the machine todetermine whether the first and second software are indicated by theentity to be suitable for operation together in the machine, andresponsive to the determinations concerning the first software and thesecond software, the at least one software verification device isoperative to enable the first software and the second software to causeoperation of at least one transaction function device, wherein the atleast one software verification device is operative to prevent operationof the at least one transaction function device unless it is determinedthat the first and second software is indicated as suitable by theentity for such operation.
 30. Apparatus comprising: an automated tellermachine associated with an entity, including: a plurality of transactionfunction devices including a cash dispenser; at least one processor inoperative connection with at least one data store; first softwareoperative in the at least one processor and adapted to cause the atleast one transaction function device to operate; at least one softwareverification device; wherein the at least one processor is in operativeconnection with the plurality of transaction function devices and the atleast one software verification device, and wherein the softwareverification device is operative to prevent the first software fromcausing operation of the at least one transaction function device and tocause the machine to determine if the first software is authorized bythe entity to operate, and wherein the software verification device isoperative responsive to such determination to enable the first softwareto cause operation of the at least one transaction function device; anexternal device operatively connected with the at least one processor,wherein the external device is located outside the machine, and whereinthe first software is further operative to cause operation of theexternal device.